What should I include as my hurricane survival kit?
One of the most important tools for emergency preparedness is your Hurricane Survival Kit. You'll need provisions to carry you through a week or more after the storm. Remember, there may be no electricity or clean water for days. Downed trees and other hurricane related debris blocking the roads will keep you from traveling far. Below are the most important items for your Hurricane Survival Kit. Stock up today; store them in a water-resistant containers; and replenish as necessary, especially at the beginning of the hurricane season – June1.
- Two weeks supply of prescription medicines
- Two weeks supply of non-perishable/special dietary foods. Buy plenty of nonperishable foods, because there won't be any refrigeration.
- Drinking water/containers: 1 gallon per person per day for two weeks. It's a good idea to sterilize the bathtub and fill it with water just before the storm.
- Flashlights and batteries for each member of the family
- Portable radio and (7 sets) batteries
- First aid book and kit including bandages, antiseptic, tape, compress, non aspirin pain reliever, anti-diarrhea medication
- Mosquito repellent and citronella candles
- Two coolers (one to keep food; the other to go get the ice)
- Plastic tarp for roof/window repair, screening, tools, nails, etc.
- Water purification kits (tablets, chlorine (plain) and iodine)
- Infant necessities (medication, sterile water, diapers, ready formula, bottles)
- Clean up supplies (mop, buckets, towels, disinfectant)
- Camera and film
- Non-electric can opener
- Extra batteries for camera, portable TV & lamps, etc.
- Plastic trash bags
- Toilet paper, paper towels and pre-moistened towelettes, eating utensils, masking tape and zip-lock bags to keep valuables safe from water.
If you evacuate you also should take:
- Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags or air mattresses
- Extra clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, raingear, etc.
- Folding chairs, lawn chairs or cots
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
- Quiet games, books, playing cards and favorite toys for children
- Important papers (drivers license, special medical information, insurance policies and property inventories)
Precious commodities before and after a storm:
- Gas
- Cash (With no power, banks may be closed, checks and credit cards unaccepted, and ATMs may not be operational).
- Charcoal, wooden matches and grill
- Ice
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